Our 16th annual Conker Festival took place on Sunday 16th October on Blackbirds Moor. The day was dry and for the most part sunny, which ensured that the crowds flocked to the event. For the main marquee, we opted once again to go for the yellow and red striped circus big top, which was certainly hard to miss and just added to the fun of the event.
Places in the knockout conker tournament were quickly filled, and the competition got under way with speed and efficiency. Some very close and exciting matches ensued, all capably overseen by our fantastic team of volunteer judges. The winner of this year’s adult contest was Hannah McKenzie, beating Rock Hunter in the final. The junior competition resulted in a 3-way final, and Gabriel Davies eventually emerged triumphant, beating Kyra Richardson into second place and Jessica Tripp into third.
Those that were not competing had many other activities and interests to keep them entertained during the afternoon. We were once again delighted to have The Dacorum & Chiltern Potters Guild join us, who ran a fantastic pottery workshop. Children of all ages were encouraged to have a go at the potter’s wheel and a staggering £265 was raised for the Hospice of St Francis.
We were also pleased to welcome back the Berkhamsted Bowmen, who ran their popular archery ‘Have a Go’ sessions during the afternoon. Other attractions included a face painter, wood carving demonstrations by Vince King and live music from the Jolly Jazzers, who generously donated their time in support of the Hospice of St. Francis.
As always local charities, environmental and craft groups were well represented with a large variety of stalls. Mansbridge bakers were selling delicious cakes, pasties, teas and coffees . All the entries in the Box Moor Trust annual Calendar Competition were on display and the Trust stall did a brisk trade selling copies of the 2012 calendar, which features all the winning photos.
The event was a great success once again and we have already set the date for next year, so we will hopefully see you at the same time and same place on Sunday 21st October 2012.
Pictured below is junior conker champion Gabriel Davies with Trust Vice-Chairman Dennis Furnell
